Moulin à Vent

The Moulin à Vent is a historic windmill located in Sainte-Ramée, Charente-Maritime, France.

History

1. Built in the mid-19th century (C19), this windmill has been in operation for over 150 years. It was constructed as a grain mill to serve the local community.

Architecture and Construction

The Moulin à Vent is a smock mill with two storeys and a single tower. The building is made of stone, with a wooden frame and thatched roof. The windmill features a single sail, which powers the grinding stones used for milling grains.

Current Status and Use

The Moulin à Vent is currently a working museum, open to the public for guided tours. It has been designated as a historic monument (Monument Historique) since 1989.

Location and Setting

The windmill is situated in the village of Sainte-Ramée, surrounded by rolling hills and farmland. The nearby River Inard provides a source of water for irrigation and other agricultural purposes.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The Moulin à Vent has been recognized as an important cultural and historical landmark due to its well-preserved state and functional operation. Efforts have been made to restore the windmill to its original condition, ensuring its continued use as a museum and educational resource.

Visiting Information

The Moulin à Vent is open to visitors during guided tours. Visitors can explore the windmill's interior, learn about its history and operation, and gain insight into traditional milling practices.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

Unfortunately, no notable historical events or famous millers are recorded for this specific windmill.

Technical Details

The Moulin à Vent features a single sail with a diameter of approximately 10 metres. The grinding stones used for milling grains are made of limestone and have a capacity of around 2 tonnes per hour.